BANGKOK, Thailand – Education Minister Prasert Jantanaruangtong said on September 29 that the Ministry of Education has introduced five measures to assist schools affected by flooding and given schools authority to suspend classes when conditions require it.
Flooding remains in several areas of Bangkok and surrounding provinces, with 155 schools in Bangkok reported affected. Some locations have remained flooded for four to five days, with stagnant water beginning to produce unpleasant odors.
The ministry has ordered damage assessments so affected schools can seek central government funding for repairs once floodwater recedes and the extent of damage can be properly assessed.
To support affected communities, the ministry has coordinated with schools and agencies under the Office of the Vocational Education Commission and the Office of the Basic Education Commission to establish relief kitchens, clean schools after floodwater recedes, and inspect and repair cars and motorcycles damaged by flooding.
Prasert said visits to about five schools in Bangkok found that water levels remained high. He confirmed that affected schools would not be able to reopen this week, with authorities needing to reassess conditions before students can return. Primary school students will also have their examinations postponed, while some secondary schools have already entered their school holidays.
Prasert also said the Pheu Thai Party had established a coordination center to assist people affected by the floods. Relief packages were being gathered on September 29 for distribution to affected residents in Bangkok and surrounding areas.
